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The Christian and Gospel music industry is a diverse and global community whose impact has a storied history and bright future. From sold out arenas, to festivals and TV shows, our creative community serves as gatekeepers to millions of consumers who are loyal and influential. Dozens of brands have already been able to connect via integrated partnerships targeting this dynamic community. During this session, the Gospel Music Association’s Jackie Patillo will set the stage with new findings from the Association’s recently updated “Christian & Gospel Music 2015 Industry Overview,” giving insights on genre sales in the U.S., demographics of today’s fans, and the impact of brand partnerships on the genre. A panel of genre experts will round out the session, diving deeper into today’s trends as well as touching on touring and artist development.

Jackie Patillo’s professional journey tells the story of one who is consistent; determined and committed to serve those called to music ministry. Since 1989, she has risen in major music companies, including Star Song Communications, Benson Music Group, and Integrity Media. Her... Read More →

Greg Bays started his career in Christian retail and has over 25 years of experience in the sales and marketing sector of the Christian music industry. Bays currently serves as Exec. VP of Capitol Christian Distribution, an extremely diverse organization with components including... Read More →

Ed Leonard is President of Daywind Music Group and VP of New Day Christian Distributors. Daywind and New Day are leaders in the creation and distribution of Christian and Gospel Music, as well as family-friendly toys, gifts, films, and books. With over 35 diverse artists and songwriters... Read More →

As President and CEO of Word Entertainment, Warner Music Group's Christian division, Rod Riley oversees Word's entire operation, including A&R, sales and marketing, music publishing, distribution, church resources, films and live events. Riley previously served as COO of Word Entertainment... Read More →

Founder and President of the music firm Maximum Artist Group, Mitchell Solarek is a well-known name in the music industry. Solarek discovered his first client, Natalie Grant, singing in a church in Washington, and now she is one of the most recognizable faces in the Gospel community... Read More →

Phil Thornton started his first company, Bright Star Entertainment, an artist management/consultant firm in 2013. At Bright Star, he represented artists such as Bad Boy Records’ GRAMMY award-winning group 112 and singer Lil’ Mo. In 2007, Thornton settled in Los Angeles and partnered... Read More →